Summer Solstice - known as Litha in the Pagan wheel of the year - is one of our favourite festivals at The College of Psychic Studies. It marks the zenith of summer, the midpoint of the year and peak of summer with the longest day. At Litha, we are bathed with the sun's effulgence. We think of this special day as a triumph of the light of wisdom and truth. Our team at the College celebrates Litha by lighting a candle, renewing our commitment to bring more light to the world. Of course, there are many ways to mark the occasion for yourself. Here are just a few suggestions for your own Litha celebrations...
Watch the sunrise and sunset
At dawn, head out into the garden, local park or - even better - top of a hill, and find a good spot to roll out the picnic blanket. The best way to celebrate Litha is by witnessing the sunrise as well as sunset. The summer solstice marks the longest day (shortest night) of the year, so make an effort to honour the start and end of this day. Sunrise is a perfect time to complete your Litha rituals - whether that's intention-setting, meditating on your truth, or making a simple commitment to shining your light in the world.
Create a Litha altar
Set up a Summer Solstice altar in your home or garden. Gather together fresh flowers, yellow or gold candles, golden jewellery, fragrant seasonal herbs and Summer Solstice crystals such as citrine and sunstone. Perhaps you have a personal altar that you can dress up with these Litha decorations and symbols. If not, set one up to connect with the special energy of this time.
Celebrate Summer Solstice with The College of Psychic Studies
Meditation for Summer Solstice
Summer Solstice is a potent time of year when we are flooded with the light of the sun. This festival is associated with renewal, reflection, and spiritual growth. As we shed light on our own shadows, so we realise our truth. Take some time for yourself today to meditate, practice yoga, or engage in mindfulness activities. If you have created a Litha altar, make this your spot for your Litha spiritual practice. Set your intentions and marvel at the light within you.
Gather for a picnic
In the wheel of the year, the Summer Solstice is when we are at our most extrovert and active. This is a time to enjoy the company of friends and loved ones. Have fun, and appreciate the sun on your skin! Celebrate Litha with a solstice picnic in the park or your garden. Celebrate together with seasonal food and let your hair down!
Arrange a bonfire
In ancient Celtic Litha celebrations, bonfires were lit across the land to honour the sun god and protect against unhelpful spirits. Communities would gather to dance, sing, and participate in fertility rituals to ensure a bountiful harvest. Of course, a huge, crackling bonfire is not accessible to all of us, so be sure to light a candle on your altar!
Forage for herbs
According to Pagan tradition, the herbs that we gather at Litha are more potent. Their magical properties are extra strong. Our ancestors would gather medicinal plants, create herbal remedies, and perform rituals for health and magic at Summer Solstice. If you love your herbs and tinctures, Summer Solstice is a good time to concoct your special remedies.
Celebrating Litha is such a beautiful way to give thanks to nature and the life-nourishing sun. It is a day to honour our inner light, to commit to bringing more light to the world, and to give thanks to all that we are.
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